Ask ChatGPT
NAIROBI, Kenya – The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has dismissed reports suggesting that Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has been cleared in connection with the death of blogger Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody last month.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 14, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan clarified that investigations into Ojwang’s death are still ongoing, and no individual—Mr. Lagat included—has been exonerated.
“IPOA’s investigation is still active, and therefore the reports that the Authority has exonerated Mr. Lagat are misleading,” said Hassan.
As reported through various statements, IPOA launched investigations into the late Ojwang’s death in police custody on 8th June, 2025. Preliminary investigations identified some suspects who have since been arraigned in court. IPOA’s investigation is still active and therefore
Ojwang died under controversial circumstances on June 8, 2025, while being held at Nairobi’s Central Police Station.
His death triggered a nationwide outcry, with protesters, activists and civil rights groups calling for accountability within the police service.
Preliminary findings by IPOA have already led to the arraignment of several officers allegedly linked to Ojwang’s torture and death.
However, pressure has mounted over the perceived haste in allowing DIG Lagat to return to office before the probe is concluded.
The IPOA statement comes just hours after former Law Society of Kenya President Nelson Havi publicly opposed Lagat’s return to office, arguing that it undermines public trust in the justice process.
“If the investigations find him culpable, IPOA will make appropriate recommendations to hold him to account,” Hassan added, reaffirming the authority’s commitment to pursuing justice in the matter.
DIG Lagat stepped aside on June 16 to allow investigations to proceed without interference.
However, today, Justice Chacha Mwita declined to issue interim orders blocking his return following a court petition filed by activist Eliud Matindi.
The judge directed Lagat to respond to the case by July 23, allowing the matter to be heard through the normal legal process.
